Former Indian cricketer Muhammad Kaif Mehdi Hassan Meeraz slammed after Salman Ali Agha’s controversial run-out during the second ODI between Bangladesh and Pakistan at the Sher-Bangla National Cricket Stadium in Dhaka on Friday.The unceremonious dismissal sparked a huge debate on social media, with Bangladesh captain Mehdi Hasan Miraz facing criticism for what many called an unsportsmanlike act. Former India batsman Kaif was among those who strongly condemned the incident.
Condemning the action, Kaif said: “This is not done. No desperation to get wickets can justify this run-out. That too by a captain. Youngsters please remember, even if the World Cup is on the finish line, never do what the Bangladesh captain did. A game without fair play is no game.”The incident occurred in the 39th over of Pakistan’s innings when the visiting team was rebuilding after losing three early wickets. Agha and Mohammad Rizwan led the innings with a 109-run partnership for the fourth wicket.Miraz bowled on the fourth ball of the over, Rizwan gently pushed the delivery down the ground. The ball rolled towards Agha, who was backed up and standing outside the crease at the non-striker’s end.As the ball hit his pads, Agha instinctively bent down to pick it up and try to return it. However, Miraz grabbed the ball quickly and ended the bulls by keeping Agha out of the crease before appealing for a run-out.The on-field umpire referred the decision to the third umpire after an appeal and the replay confirmed the dismissal in favor of Bangladesh.The decision left Agha visibly disappointed as he walked back to the pavilion, with television footage showing the Pakistan batsman expressing his displeasure after the call.The incident also led to a brief exchange between the players of the two teams on the field. Rizwan was seen arguing with the Bangladeshi players, while Latin Das defended Miraz’s appeal.The rare run-out quickly became the biggest talking point of the match, dividing opinion among fans online. While many supported Agha and criticized his dismissal spirit, others argued that the Pakistani batsman should have ensured that he returned to his crease.Meanwhile, Pakistan were eventually bundled out for 274 in 47.3 overs, with Muaz Sadaqat top scoring with 75 runs.
